Perhaps this article will look like a patchwork quilt, and perhaps this is in effect, because it attempts, in a kind of synthesis, exposing two schools of thought, contrasted with each other, both doubtless interesting. In this seam made with ideas of others, of course some of which I share and others not, the stitches collected visions that cross social networks, from the publication of the report for Hilda Garcia, an Afro-Panamanian mother of four daughters, who had to straighten their hair, because at school they attend was told, "Your daughter can not come to school with that hairstyle."

The report, published in the newspaper La Prensa (Panama), has brought into sharp focus the discussion on the ban on girls and young women wearing Afro hairstyles with braids) in schools in Panama. I note that the issue is not new, as in the past there has been news of the protest from other Afro-Panamanian mothers who have found it discriminatory. But never, as on this occasion, have we hear so many voices rising, reflecting the space and strength social networks have gained.

Basically both positions are expressed in the debate. One of the first voices in public opinion, and has served as the bearer of one strand of opinion was that of a child psychologist who said: We are not discriminating against the black race. It is discipline and rules set by the Ministry of Education. Students do not go to school to show off hairstyles and jewelry. Study will focus on learning and best to be good professionals in the future.

A first question that people have to put forward a different view on the subject is as follows: Based on what was established rule that braids are not appropriate hairstyles for school, and why it is considered that the hair straight and loose hair it is? They say: The rules are precisely the most widely used instrument of discrimination through history. [And that] are countless examples of laws, ordinances and regulations, be they moral, social or legal, who have been put forward by companies and governments to favor one part of the population over another.

The point of view has been shared by child psychologist, as I advance, several participants in the debate. This is the case of a person who ruled that: When we take the uniform for our children in schools parents are accepting that we are all equal. If each one goes as he pleases, and based on their ethno-cultures, then enter a contradiction. These hairstyles work at home or in public places.

Likewise, in discussing some have questioned: Schools must act with discipline. If not done, then each student would go as he pleases. Everything has its place.

During the interesting debate, one suggestion is that many rules with extreme rigidity look more like "punishment" that programs with justification, and should be examined psychologically, because they may well be abusive though camouflaged by the spirit of trying to bring order and discipline. It suggests people can be obsessive compulsive, "psychopaths integrated" into the educational system, which potentially can do much damage.

Until now, one thing that seems clear in the discussion is that when a rule is imposed based on the interests or cultural norms of only part of the population, the rule becomes authoritarian and discriminatory. At least that was the route that goes marching for most of the interventions that have occurred in social networks, on a point that in a multiethnic and multicultural society such as Panama, it is undeniable that transcends the braids and the bows of black schoolgirls in our country. And what about self-esteem.

Personally, I agree with an opinion that I thought would be a rush to delimit the discussion. And is this: While all cultural groups in the country do not have equal participation in defining what is or is not appropriate in school, there will still be discrimination. I think that reflection is valid for the many and varied aspects covered by the Panamanian educational system.

While trying to finish assembling this quilt of conflicting ideas, the debate on this topic continues in social networks. And many, most, are still wondering: Why do some think the hair with braids is at odds with the study, concentration, learning and mainly to be good people?

For my part, have not lost hope that one day "Panama: melting pot" is more than just a pretty phrase.